Apple has started testing DRAM chips from Chinese supplier CXMT for devices sold in China, as the company looks for more ways to handle the growing memory chip shortage. The move shows Apple’s push to expand its supply options at a time when rising component prices have already started affecting product pricing.
The Financial Times reports that Apple is testing CXMT’s memory chips while also leading a lobbying effort among US tech companies to get broader approval for using the company’s products. CXMT remains a sensitive supplier because the Pentagon has placed it on a blacklist over alleged links to China’s military.
Apple Looks for More Memory Supply Options
Apple’s interest in CXMT follows Tim Cook’s recent comments about the wider memory crunch. He said price increases were difficult to avoid and suggested that the US should review all possible supply options, including companies that remain restricted under national-security rules.
According to earlier reports, Apple had already been seeking clearance from the Trump administration to buy chips from CXMT. The company has also held talks around using memory chips from YMTC, another Chinese supplier that has drawn concern from US lawmakers.
Apple has tried for years to use Chinese memory suppliers for products sold in China, including past evaluations of YMTC NAND chips for iPhones. This time, Apple has a stronger business reason because memory prices are rising fast and supply remains tight across the industry.
Still, the political concern remains serious. US lawmakers argue that deals with companies such as CXMT and YMTC can strengthen Chinese chipmakers backed by Beijing, while Apple wants more flexibility to manage costs and keep devices competitive in China.
